While the Van Ness neighborhood is one of the most charming areas in the District, we are nestled in a quadrant with numerous other areas worth exploring. When Van Ness residents want to grab a bite to eat beyond the immediate neighborhood but don’t feel like journeying all the way into downtown DC, Woodley Park, Tenleytown, and Cathedral Heights all provide tasty options within walking distance — or a very short drive!

Here are a couple can’t-miss options in the neighborhoods surrounding the Park Van Ness apartment building.

Woodley Park

Don’t Miss… Open City

This bar/diner/cafe is a favorite in the Woodley Park area for both visitors and locals. It tends to be bustling at all times of day, but brunch is what this place does best. Stop in and read the morning news over a towering plate of eggs, bacon, toast, and hash browns, or if you’re in a rush, grab an espresso drink from the walk-up coffee bar. In the summertime, the frozen cappuccinos are a great way to beat the heat while getting your daily dose of caffeine. Open City does dinner just as well as breakfast and lunch, so don’t miss out on the meatloaf and other diner classics.

Tenleytown

Don’t Miss… Guapo’s

This Tex-Mex classic has long been a go-to for families, AU students, and long time locals. The unpretentious atmosphere, flavorful food, plus outdoor patio seating makes it a perfect option on a hot summer night. The tacos, nachos, and fajitas at Guapo’s are always delicious and the restaurant is just steps from the Tenleytown metro, making it an easy one-stop trip on the red line from Park Van Ness.

Cathedral Heights

Don’t Miss… 2 Amy’s

This classic Neapolitan pizzeria is regularly winning awards and getting rave reviews. Chef Peter Pastan has a secret recipe for his crust that makes the pizzas absolutely mouth-wateringly delicious. There’s a cute bar in the back, a small outdoor patio, and an upstairs for squeezing in extra diners. If you’re craving thin crust, perfectly crafted pizza, 2 Amy’s is a spot the whole family will love.

NW DC truly has a world class dining scene. If you’re looking for a tasty meal just a short walk from Park Van Ness, the nearby neighborhoods have lots to offer!